August 10, 2021 – Ottawa, KS –
Ottawa University recorded a 5-5 record in 2020 and a 2-8 record in 2019. In 2020, the braves defense ranked 12th in total sacks in division 1 NAIA football. Ottawa University’s football defensive unit finished with 25 sacks and 13 interceptions in 2020. Defensive lineman Jacob Garcia contributed with 3.5 sacks and 31 solo tackles. Garcia finished second on the team in sacks behind linebacker Colby Johnson who is a senior at Ottawa University. He was named to the 2021 NAIA Preseason All- American team for his production and was the only player selected from Ottawa University (Kansas). Jacob had 88 tackles as a sophomore and made first team All-KCAC in his both his sophomore and junior year. Garcia will enter his last season with the braves with high expectations and something to prove.
The braves ranked 34th in pass defense in 2020. Jacob Garcia can use his defensive presence and another year of on-field experience to help a weak secondary. Garcia’s play can help Ottawa’s defensive backs by limiting runners in the backfield and explosive pass plays.
Jacob Garcia is a disruptive and aggressive football player. You can watch his highlights on his Hudl account. These are traits that make a great defensive lineman. He is consistently flying to the ball and tackles well in space. In 2020, he finished sixth in the NAIA in tackles for loss with 14.5 and had an outstanding 13 tackles against Avila University. Because of Garcia’s playmaking ability and hard work, Ottawa University’s football program should have a better record in 2021. The team’s offense also needs a boost. The braves ranked 41st in total offense per game and 32nd in third down efficiency. In the game of football, you must play well in all three facets of the game: offense, defense, and special teams to succeed.
Garcia’s success hasn’t been limited to college football play. While at W.B Ray High School he lettered in football and wrestling. Garcia was a first team All-District selection and was named Third-team All-Texas. These, and other accomplishments have helped propel Garcia to being an all-around football player.
